In September 2015, the HALI team conducted captures of 15 adult buffaloes in Ruaha National Park for disease testing, and placed an additional two collars on buffaloes from two herds. The effort was a part of the Ruaha National Park/HALI collaborative project that is investigating health, population status and ecology of African buffaloes in the park (see past blog posts from Jan 6 2015, March 11 2015, and May 21 2015).

Buffaloes were anesthetized by using a carbon dioxide powered dart rifle to deliver a syringe-like dart containing a powerful anesthetic. Once each buffalo was anesthetized, the team approached the animals, placed a blindfold to calm the animal and provided water if needed to cool the animal, then quickly took blood, hair and fecal samples, and performed a health exam. At the end of the exam, each buffalo was given a rapid acting drug that reverses the anesthesia and allows the animals to wake up in a matter of minutes. All animals recovered and no injuries to humans or buffaloes occurred.

The biological samples collected by the team will be tested at Sokoine University of Agriculture in Morogoro, Tanzania for various diseases.

In addition to the capture work, the Ruaha National Park and the HALI team conducted the fourth annual demographic survey of buffalo herds in the park. The survey took 4 days. Demographic data helps the research team understand how herd composition (the ratio of males, females, adults and young) and reproduction varies between years.

Below are a few photographs from the adventures…

The HALI Land rover car cautiously approaches a herd of buffalo so that Prof Mpanduji, from Sokoine University (seated on the left) can be in proper range to deliver a dart containing anesthetic

The team from HALI, Ruaha National Park and Sokoine University of Agriculture collecting samples and measurements on an immobilized buffalo. Team members from left to right: Rangers: Martin Sakawa and Edwin Kwatha, Dr. Deana Clifford, Dr. Goodluck Paul (kneeling behind buffalo), Prof. Donald Mpanduji (holding tail), Dr. Annette Roug, Ally Kikula (R rear), and Dr. Epaphras Alex Muse (R front). Team members not in picture: Erasto Katowo and Amani Zacharia.

During the work, the team located the buffaloes that were collared in 2014. All looked healthy and in good condition. At least two of the collared buffaloes were also seen with a calf on foot.

Innovation in the bush: The HALI field vehicle overheated due to a clogged grill from grass particles. HALI’s amazing bush driver and mechanic Erasto repaired the vehicle on site and placed branches in front of the grill to reduce the influx of grass.

HALI Project

The Health for Animals and Livelihood Improvement (HALI) project works with local stakeholders to investigate health at the human-animal-environment interface in Tanzania.

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HALI is supported by grant funding, awards, and through the contributions of our network of dedicated volunteers and team members. To ensure sustainability of our programs and to keep our talented teams and activities funded, HALI relies upon philanthropic support from private donors. Please consider supporting the HALI project by visiting our donation center at the UC Davis Wildlife Health Center.